East Coast Army Commander in Chief Jeff Lohnes recalls his East Coast experience at the Vancouver Olympics

Amidst the hustle and bustle of the Vancouver Olympics, there was a particular excitement at Granville Island’s Atlantic Canada House on February 23rd. Arguably the best pavilion at the games, the instant fame the House earned was again justified as New Brunswick Day took over the classic Vancouver venue. This was a celebration of all the great things about the province: its beautiful landscape, its delicious food, its fierce musical talent, and its wonderful people.

Within minutes of entering, a smiling chef ladled me up the finest seafood chowder that has ever touched my lips. Perfectly concocted by the chefs – who were "borrowed" from their native East Coast restaurants and hotels to cook at the Games – each mug of chowder was chock-full of Atlantic seafood, including big, succulent lobster claws imported straight from the Bay of Fundy. After two cups of chowder, we were treated to world class caviar, a delicacy harvested by Acadian Sturgeon Ltd. and exported straight from the St. John River.

With a settled stomach, we grabbed our seats for the evening's concert, featuring a large cast of New Brunswick artists. We were part of the lucky few, as hordes of fans were turned away at the door –the venue was at capacity within minutes of opening.

A pleasant surprise to kick off the show was the beautiful and very funny Measha Brueggergosman, who sang the Olympian Anthem at the opening ceremonies earlier in the week.  A proud New Brunswick native, she stunned the audience with her musical range and beaming smile, singing a delightful trio of songs that earned the first of many standing ovations during the evening. The show continued with more amazing talent filling the stage: David Myles, Jean-François Breau, Ode a l’Acadie, Lisa Leblanc, DJ Nasty Naz, Hubert Francis, and many others. A highlight of the night was definitely Matt Andersen. New Brunswick’s best-kept secret for some time, Andersen is gaining huge international attention and playing to ever-growing audiences.

The night didn't end there: after the theatre show, the crowd, packed full of Maritimers and patrons from around the world, headed down to the Backstage Lounge for more East Coast spirit and music. First Jean-François Breau took the stage for a set, and then David Myles got back on and played until the wee hours.

It's no secret New Brunswick’s showcase was designed to attract people to visit and live in their fine province. I’d say they did their job.